April 15, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2008-30) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-2857/Fax: (251) 208-2861 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org SPACE HEATER TO BLAME FOR APARTMENT FIRE Unusually cooler temperatures contributed to an apartment fire early Tuesday morning April 15 at 1401 Next Street. The fire was reported at approximately 3:33 a.m. and firefighters arriving at approximately 3:40 a.m. reported heavy smoke showing from one side of a duplex apartment. The fire appears to have originated in a bedroom near the bed and spread throughout the apartment including the attic. Fire Investigators discovered a space heater near the bed and the wall. They also found a large amount of debris, clothing and other miscellaneous items that help aid in the spread of the fire. Trevis Moore, an occupant of the apartment, told investigators that he awoke to discover the foot of the bed on fire and a large amount of fire further stating that he barely had enough time to make his escape. Investigators determined the cause of the fire was accidental due to a space heater being too close to the bed. Property and content damage is estimated at approximately $65 thousand. No injuries were reported. Engines 12, 14, 15, 21, truck 10, rescue 14 and District Chief David Rose responded. ###